Training, Evaluation, & Evaluation Timeline | Pre-Evaluation I | Pre-Evaluation II | Pre-Evaluation III

Level I Mission Readiness Evaluation | MRE Level I Evaluation Sheets

Level II Mission Readiness Evaluation | MRE Level II Evaluation Sheets

 

Training, Evaluation, & Evaluation Time-Line

The evaluation process is a part of the training protocol required to properly prepare a handler and dog for Mission Readiness. If a team does not pass an evaluation on the first try, the team may take the evaluation again within a two month window. If a team fails the same test twice, the team will meet with the K-9 Unit Leader and Full Members of the K-9 Unit for a review to determine whether or not the team will be allowed to continue training. Outside individuals from established SAR teams will conduct all Mission Readiness Evaluations of TSAR K-9 teams.

1. Pre-Evaluation I - must successfully complete within 6 months of the first day of training.
2. Pre-Evaluation II - must successfully complete within 6 months of passing Pre-Evaluation I.
3. Pre-Evaluation III - must be completed and signed to the satisfaction of the TSAR K-9 Unit Leader within 1 year of passing Pre-Evaluation II.
4. Level I Mission Readiness Evaluation - must successfully complete within 1 year of passing the Pre-Test Evaluation II. Therefore, a dog/handler team has up to 2 years to complete training and achieve mission readiness status.
5. Level II Mission Readiness Evaluation - must successfully complete within 8 months of passing the Level I Mission Readiness Evaluation or a Secondary MRE.
6. Secondary Mission Readiness Evaluation - must successfully complete within 8 months of passing the Level I Mission Readiness Evaluation or Level II Mission Readiness Evaluation.
7. Maintaining Mission Readiness Status - For teams meeting TSAR K-9 Unit attendance requirements: every 2 years. For teams not meeting TSAR K-9 Unit attendance requirements: every year.

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TSAR K-9 Pre-Evaluation I

This evaluation is provided an overall record of training goals and finally to provide a benchmark in the progress of the handler/dog team. It also prepares the team for the second phase of training and evaluation on the path to achieving mission ready status.

 

The evaluation is in two parts: 1) a training checklist, and 2) a field evaluation. Both parts must be successfully completed within 6 months of the team's first training session. The training checklist must be completed before the field evaluation is scheduled.

 

If the field evaluation is not successfully completed, the handler/dog team will be given an opportunity to repeat the evaluation within 2 months from when the evaluation was originally attempted. At the completion of Pre-evaluation I, scores and reports are considered by the mission ready teams within the K-9 unit and a decision is made as to whether dog and handler will continue further training with the unit.

 

The following pages contain all information and score sheets to complete the TSAR K-9 Pre-Evaluation I:

• A) Training Checklist - Air Scent
• B) Training List - Tracking/Trailing
• C) Field Evaluation Details
• D) Field Evaluation Sheet

 

A)

TSAR K-9 Pre-Evaluation I - Training Checklist - Air Scent
Start Date:	Finish Date:
Training Tasks - Air Scent	Sign-off by UL/TC
Handler:	1	2	3	4	5	6	7	8	9	10	Score
Demonstrates good relationship with dog
Open to suggestions of teammates
Follows directions well
Demonstrates beginning understanding of scent theory
Beginning to read dog
Trusts dog and does not lead
Shows enthusiasm in working with dog
Demonstrates good team skills
Remains calm while handling dog and during search scenario
Utilizes dog's commands properly
Encourages & supports dog's drive
Current with training logs
Handler Score
K-9:	1	2	3	4	5	6	7	8	9	10	Score
Dog gets along well with people
Dog gets along well with other dogs
Runaway Game w/ handler/familiar person
Runaway Game w/ new person
Check-mark Problem
Walk/run-away game w/ increased difficulty
Blind Finds
Exhibits satisfaction w/ reward
K-9 Score
Total Score
Signature of UL:

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Pre-Evaluation I
B)

TSAR K-9 Pre-Evaluation I - Training Checklist - Tracking/Trailing
Start Date:	Finish Date:
Training Tasks - Tracking/Trailing	Sign-off by UL/TC
Handler:	1	2	3	4	5	6	7	8	9	10	Score
Demonstrates good relationship with dog
Open to suggestions of teammates
Follows directions well
Demonstrates beginning understanding of scent theory
Beginning to read dog
Trusts dog and does not lead
Shows enthusiasm in working with dog
Demonstrates good team skills
Does not use line for correction when working dog
Keeps proper tension on line
Remains calm while handling dog and during search scenario
Utilizes dog's commands properly
Encourages & supports dog's drive
Current with training logs
Handler Score
K-9:	1	2	3	4	5	6	7	8	9	10	Score
Dog gets along well with people
Dog gets along well with other dogs
Basic footprint track, 50-100 feet
Basic footprint track, 100 + feet
45 degree track acquisition
90 degree track acquisition
90 degree turns on track: into wind/away from wind
Dog understands taking scent
Aged Track: 2-4 hours
Exhibits satisfaction w/ reward
K-9 Score
Total Score
Signature of UL:

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Pre-Evaluation I

C) Pre-Evaluation I - Field Evaluation Details

 

The K-9 team must arrive to the evaluation site on time with all equipment for self and dog complete and ready to go. Evaluation of handling of the dog is begun upon arrival.

 

The K-9 team must successfully search and find one subject in an area of 10 acres (1/8 mile x 1/8 mile) in moderate terrain. The find must take place within 1 hour from the time the dog is released with a find command. The dog may air scent, track, or trail.

The handler will not know where the subject is placed within the search area. The subject shall not wear any bright colors and must not be visible to the handler within 20 feet.

 

Following are the criteria upon which the handler is evaluated:

• Handler arrives at evaluation site with appropriate equipment and in control of one's dog and situation.
• Handler properly obtains the search scenario from the evaluator and demonstrates an ability to plan an appropriate method of search.
• Handler must demonstrate a basic knowledge of weather and terrain effects upon his/her search problem.
• Handler must demonstrate sound handling techniques: send out, during search, during find, and reward.
• Handler must demonstrate ability to read his/her dog: alerts, working, not working, distracted interest, etc.
• Handler must maintain a calm and professional attitude.
• Handler must demonstrate an acceptable reward system for the dog.

Following are the criteria upon which the K-9 is evaluated:

• Dog must exhibit eagerness to work and a consistent work ethic.
• Dog must exhibit good (not perfect) response to handler's commands.
• Dog must be willing to approach the subject when found.
• Dog must exhibit exuberance and satisfaction with his reward system.

D)

TSAR K-9 Pre-Evaluation I - Field Search
Handler:
K-9:		Date:
Evaluation Standards		Pass	Fail
Handler arrives at evaluation site with appropriate equipment and in control of one's dog and situation.
Handler properly obtains the search scenario from the evaluator and demonstrates an ability to plan an appropriate method of search.
Handler must demonstrate a basic knowledge of weather and terrain effects upon his/her search problem.
Handler must demonstrate sound handling techniques: send out, during search, during find, and reward.
Handler must demonstrate ability to read his/her dog: alerts, working, not working, distracted interest, etc.
Handler must maintain a calm and professional attitude.
Handler must demonstrate an acceptable reward system for the dog.
Dog must exhibit eagerness to work and a consistent work ethic.
Dog must exhibit good (not perfect) response to handler.
Dog must be willing to approach the subject when found.
Dog must exhibit exuberance and satisfaction with his reward system.
(Team must successfully achieve 10 out of 11 standards to pass the evaluation.) Totals
Final Result		Pass	Fail
Final Comments:
Signature of Evaluator:

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Pre-Evaluation I

TSAR K-9 Pre-Evaluation II

This evaluation is provided as a benchmark in the progress of the handler/dog team. It also mentally and physically begins to prepare the team for the final section of training and evaluation that is required to become a mission ready team.

The evaluation must be successfully completed within 6 months of the team successfully completing the TSAR K-9 Pre-Evaluation I. The evaluation is in three parts: 1) a training checklist, 2) an obedience evaluation, and 3) a field evaluation. The training checklist and obedience evaluation must be completed before the field evaluation is scheduled.

 

If the field evaluation is not successfully completed, the handler/dog team will be given an opportunity to repeat the evaluation within 2 months from when the evaluation was originally attempted. At the completion of Pre-evaluation II, scores and reports are considered by the mission ready teams within the K-9 unit and a decision is made as to whether dog and handler will continue further training with the unit.

 

The following pages contain all information and score sheets to complete the TSAR K-9 Pre-Evaluation II:

• A) Training Checklist - Air Scent
• B) Training Checklist - Tracking/Trailing
• C) Obedience Score Sheet
• D) Field Evaluation Details
• E) Field Prep Evaluation Sheet
• F) Field Search Evaluation Sheet
  

A)

TSAR K-9 Pre-Evaluation II - Training Checklist - Air Scent
Start Date:	Finish Date:
Training Tasks - Air Scent	Sign-off by UL/TC
Handler:	1	2	3	4	5	6	7	8	9	10	Score
Demonstrates good relationship with dog
Open to suggestions of teammates
Follows directions well
Demonstrates understanding of scent theory
Reading dog well
Trusts dog and does not lead
Shows enthusiasm in working with dog
Demonstrates good team skills
Remains calm while handling dog and during search scenario
Utilizes dog's commands properly
Competent use of compass to determine alert direction
Correct plotting of position on map
Demonstrates basic working knowledge of GPS
Rests and waters dog appropriately
Encourages & supports dog's drive
Current with training logs
Handler Score
K-9:	1	2	3	4	5	6	7	8	9	10	Score
Transfer to non-visual cues: walk-in, call-out, etc.
Blind finds
Increased distance/time: 10-20 acres
Increased distance/time: 20-40 acres
Two subject finds
Unconscious subject find
Exhibits satisfaction w/ reward
Dog works at pace appropriate for weather/terrain conditions
Demonstrates scent discrimination
Training of find alert or find/refind alert
Scent Specific Problems
Generic Scent Problems
K-9 Score
Total Score
Signature of UL:

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Pre-Evaluation II

B)

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Pre-Evaluation II

C) Pre Evaluation II - Obedience:

The following brief obedience evaluation must be successfully passed in order to schedule the field search evaluation:

TSAR K-9 Pre-Evaluation II - Obedience
Handler:
K-9:		Date:
Evaluation Standards		Pass	Fail
Sit
Down
Sit-Stay
Long Down-Stay - Handler Present = 8 minutes
Long Down Stay - Handler Absent = 3 minutes
Heel - no pulling
Final Result		Pass	Fail
Final Comments:
Signature of Evaluator:

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Pre-Evaluation II

D) Pre-Evaluation II - Field Evaluation Details

The K-9 team must arrive to the evaluation site on time with all equipment for self and dog complete and ready to go. Evaluation of handling of the dog is begun upon arrival.

The K-9 team must successfully search and find one subject in an area of 20 acres (1/4 mile x 1/4 mile) in moderate terrain. The find must take place within 1 hour from the time the dog is released with a find command. The dog may air scent, track, or trail.

The handler will not know where the subject is placed within the search area. The subject shall not wear any bright colors and must not be visible to the handler within 20 feet.

Following are the criteria upon which the handler is evaluated:

• Handler arrives at evaluation site with appropriate equipment and in control of one's dog and situation.
• Handler properly obtains the search scenario from the evaluator and demonstrates an ability to plan an appropriate method of search.
• Handler must demonstrate a basic knowledge of weather and terrain effects upon his/her search problem.
• Handler must demonstrate sound handling techniques: send out, during search, during find, and reward.
• Handler must demonstrate ability to read his/her dog: alerts, working, not working, distracted interest, etc.
• Handler must maintain a calm and professional attitude.
• Handler must demonstrate an acceptable reward system for the dog.

Following are the criteria upon which the K-9 is evaluated:

• Dog must exhibit eagerness to work and a consistent work ethic.
• Dog must exhibit good (not perfect) response to handler's commands.
• Dog must be willing to approach the subject when found.

Dog must exhibit exuberance and satisfaction with his reward system.

E) Field Prep:

The handler must demonstrate navigational skills and an understanding of scent theory through passing a brief field test prior to the search evaluation:

 

TSAR K-9 Pre-Evaluation II - Field Prep
Handler:
K-9:		Date:
Evaluation Standards		Pass	Fail
Program in and navigate to specific UTM coordinates on the gps.
Determine a compass bearing on a sited object.
Determine wind direction.
Describe: Air Scent - how the scent should be traveling through the search area under current weather/terrain conditions. Tracking/Trailing - where scent should be retained, pooled, or dispersed under current weather/terrain conditions.
Take weather readings and record these in your training log: Air Scent - wind speed, temperature and humidity. Tracking/Trailing - humidity, ground & air temperature
Program into GPS and plot on topo map: Air Scent - coordinates for search sector Tracking/Trailing - base camp & PLS
Final Result		Pass	Fail
Final Comments:
Signature of Evaluator:

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Pre-Evaluation II

F)

TSAR K-9 Pre-Evaluation II - In-Field
Handler:
K-9:		Date:
Evaluation Standards		Pass	Fail
Handler arrives at evaluation site with appropriate equipment and in control of one's dog and situation.
Handler properly obtains the search scenario from the evaluator and demonstrates an ability to plan an appropriate method of search.
Handler must demonstrate a basic knowledge of weather and terrain effects upon his/her search problem.
Handler must demonstrate sound handling techniques: send out, during search, during find, and reward.
Handler must demonstrate ability to read his/her dog: alerts, working, not working, distracted interest, etc.
Handler must maintain a calm and professional attitude.
Handler must demonstrate an acceptable reward system for the dog.
Dog must exhibit eagerness to work and a consistent work ethic.
Dog must exhibit good (not perfect) response to handler's commands
Dog must be willing to approach the subject when found.
Dog must exhibit exuberance and satisfaction with his reward system.
Final Result Team must successfully achieve 10 out of 11 standards to pass the evaluation.)		Pass	Fail
Final Comments:
Signature of Evaluator:

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Pre-Evaluation II

TSAR K-9 Pre-Evaluation III

This evaluation is provided as a pathway to record and grade progress made toward Mission Readiness of the handler/dog team once basics of the Pre-Evaluations have been met. It insures the team has thoroughly trained for readiness in the field in various areas of proficiency.

Not all areas of the checklist need to be completed, but the signature of the Unit Leader is required before the Level I Mission Readiness Evaluation may be scheduled. If the TSAR K-9 Pre-Evaluation III is not satisfactorily completed, the handler/dog team cannot progress forward to take the Level I Mission Readiness Evaluation and the handler/dog team may be dismissed from further training at the discretion of the TSAR Board.

The TSAR K-9 Pre-Evaluation III is taken into consideration by the TSAR Board of Directors along side the Level I Mission Readiness Evaluation scores to determine if the handler/dog team is ready to be given mission ready status, to what extent, and in what capacity. In this way, mission readiness is not fully determined by one testing on one given day. It encompasses training over several months to insure foundations have been properly laid and consistency of success has been achieved.

The TSAR K-9 Pre-Evaluation III must be completed within 1 year of the team successfully completing the TSAR K-9 Pre-Evaluation II. However, the handler/dog team need not receive high final scores on the TSAR K-9 Pre-Evaluation III in all areas to be deemed mission ready: certain areas are specialties and the areas of success will help the Board determine how the team is prepared to most effectively be utilized as a resource in the field.

Each training checklist item is dated and initialed by either the Unit Leader or the Training Coordinator. If there are certain sections which the team was unable to accomplish, those sections will be marked "open" with an "O". Each section is graded by the Unit Leader on a scale of 1-5 to give the TSAR Board a clear, concise overview of the training areas where fluency has been achieved:

1 = incomplete ("open") or unobtainable results
2 = poor results
3 = moderate results
4 = good results
5 = excellent results

The following pages contain all information and score sheets to complete the TSAR K-9 Pre-Evaluation III:

• A) Training Checklist - Air Scent
• B) Training Checklist - Tracking/Trailing

A)

TSAR K-9 Pre-Evaluation III - Training Checklist - Air Scent
Start Date:	Finish Date:
Training Tasks - Air Scent	Sign-off by UL/TC
Handler:	1	2	3	4	5	6	7	8	9	10	Score
Competent use of GPS to program search sector and alert points
Competent use of compass to determine alert direction
Correct plotting of positions on map
Maintains clear & appropriate communications to base camp
Competent assessment of ROCs
Competent assessment of POD
Trusts dog and does not lead
Competency at reading dog
Demonstrates good team skills
Encourages & supports dog's drive
Demonstrates competent working knowledge of scent theory
Understands working and clearing a search sector
Understands search methods & their application: sector, hasty, etc
Demonstrates appropriate physical condition for the task
Current with training logs
Handler Score
K-9:	1	2	3	4	5	6	7	8	9	10	Score
Completes find (with no assist)
Good work ethic
Clear find alert or find/refind alert
Responsive to handler directions
Works well adjacent other dogs
Demonstrates ability to work long hours or in adverse conditions
Dog works at a pace that is appropriate for weather/terrain conditions
Exhibits satisfaction w/ reward
Find of unresponsive subject or eccentric subject
Find of successive subjects
Find of subject @ night
Find of moving subject
Find of elevated or concealed subject
Find of subject in little to no-wind conditions
Find of subject in erratic, shifting winds
Motivational finds: runaways, checkmarks, call-outs, 100 feet, 5-10 acres, etc.
20-40 acre finds: varied terrain and brush & subject location unknown
40 + acre finds: varied terrain and brush & subject location unknown
Demonstrates scent discrimination
Water find
Human remains detection
Building search
Locates scent articles or tracks
K-9 Score
Total Score
Signature of UL:

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Pre-Evaluation III

B)

TSAR K-9 Pre-Evaluation III - Training Checklist - Tracking/Trailing
Start Date:	Finish Date:
Training Tasks - Tracking/Trailing	Sign-off by UL/TC
Handler:	1	2	3	4	5	6	7	8	9	10	Score
Competent use of GPS to program base, and alert points
Competent use of compass to determine direction of travel
Correct plotting of position on map
Clear & appropriate communications to base camp
Competent assessment of ROCs
Competent assessment of POD
Trusts dog and does not lead
Competency at reading dog
Demonstrates good team skills
Good at circling and requiring dog to stay with track
Good at line-checking
No line corrections
Encourages & supports dog's drive
Demonstrates competent working knowledge of scent theory
Demonstrates appropriate physical condition for the task
Current with training logs
Handler Score
K-9:	1	2	3	4	5	6	7	8	9	10	Score
Completes find with no assist
Good work ethic
Clear find alert or find/refind alert
Responsive to handler
Exhibits satisfaction w/ reward
Good track acquisition
Circles well to re-acquire track
Dog works at a pace that is appropriate for weather/terrain conditions
Demonstrates scent discrimination
Find of unresponsive subject or eccentric subject
Find of successive subjects
Find of subject @ night
Find of moving subject
Find of elevated or concealed subject
Hot tracks: 1-4 hours (motivational)
Short-aged tracks: 4-8 hours
Aged tracks: 8-12 hours
Old tracks: 12+ hours
Highly contaminated/urban tracks
Human remains detection
Building search
K-9 Score
Total Score
Signature of UL:

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Pre-Evaluation III

TSAR K-9 Level I Mission Readiness Evaluation

Level I Mission Readiness Evaluation Page Navigation:

Level I Mission Readiness Requiremets

Evaluation Outlines: Obedience - Agility - In-Field Search - Handler Criteria - Dog Criteria - Air Scent - Tracking/Trailing

MRC Level I Evaluation Sheets: Obedience Evaluation - Agility Evaluation - Field Evaluation - Final Field Scores

The Level I Mission Readiness Evaluation must be completed within one year of having successfully completed the Pre-Evaluation II and the in-field search portion may be scheduled anytime after meeting the Level I Mission Readiness Evaluation Requirements.

The scores received by handler/K-9 team on the Level I Mission Readiness Evaluation (Obedience, Agility, & Field) and the Pre-Evaluation III Training Checklist is reviewed by the TSAR Board of Directors. The Board of Directors then deems whether or not the handler/K-9 team is ready for field deployment and in what capacity the team can be deployed for future TSAR missions requiring the service of a K-9 search team. If the hanlder/K-9 team is denied mission ready status, the team may re-apply a second time after a 2-month waiting period, during which they can correct deficiencies on the Pre-Evaluation III Training Checklist and will then repeat the entire Level I Mission Readiness Evaluation.

The Mission Readiness Evaluation must be renewed every year unless the Handler/K-9 team attends 70% of all scheduled TSAR K-9 trainings and meetings, in which case the Mission Readiness Evaluation is good for 2 years. If a Handler/K-9 team is completely absent from scheduled team trainings and meetings for 3 months, then the Mission Readiness status may be reviewed and revoked by the TSAR Board of Directors.

Level I Mission Readiness Evaluation Requirements:

• The handler must have passed the New Mexico PACE exam, being a certified SAR volunteer with the State of New Mexico.
• The Pre-Evaluation III Training Checklist is signed off and scored by the TSAR K-9 Unit Leader.
• The handler/K-9 team must successfully complete the Obedience portion of the Level I Mission Readiness Evaluation, performed on lead.
• The handler/K-9 team must successfully complete an Agility portion of the Level I Mission Readiness Evaluation, performed either on or off lead.
• The handler must have read Rescue International's First Aid for Search and Rescue Canines and Other Working Dogs by Karen Dashfield, DVM and must successfully complete a test on the contents of the book with a passing score of 70%.

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Level I Mission Readiness Evaluation

 

Evaluation Outlines

Obedience:

Following are the descriptions of each obedience exercise performed on lead for Level I Mission Readiness Evaluation:

• Sit - The dog must sit on command with the handler in close proximity to the dog.
• Sit-Stay - The dog must stay in sit while the handler drops the lead and walks 20 feet away from the dog. The dog must stay in the sit for 3 minutes.
• Down - The dog must lay down on command with the handler in close proximity to the dog.
• Long Down-Stay - The dog is given and performs the down command. The handler walks 30 feet from the dog, remaining in view, and the dog must remain in the down for 20 minutes. The dog may shift, stand and lay back down of its own accord, but is not to leave the direct area in which the down was begun. The handler may verbally repeat the command no more than two times during the 20-minute time period.
• Recall from Down - The handler calls the dog when the long down-stay is completed. The dog must come quickly and directly to the handler.
• Absent Down-Stay - The dog is given and performs the down command. The handler walks away at least 30 feet and disappears from site. The dog must remain in the down without the handler visible for 10 minutes. The dog may shift, stand and lay back down of its own accord, but is not to leave the direct area in which the down was begun. The handler may not appear and repeat the command.
• Drop on Recall - The dog is recalled at the end of the absent down-stay. Upon the dog's return path back to the handler, the dog is given a command to drop to a down. The dog must immediately stop and drop, without more than a couple of steps.
• Heel - The heel must be performed without the dog pulling or straining on the lead. During the heel sequence, the dog must perform the heel at slow, medium, and fast paces. The handler may give a command for each of the paces.
• Heel w/ 90 & 180 degree turns - During the heel sequence, the dog must readily turn in all directions without pulling, straining, or interfering with the walking gait of the handler.
• Wait - The handler must demonstrate the dog's ability to control prey drive through enticing the dog with food or a toy, but making the dog wait until it is told it may "get it". The wait must be at least 1 minute long.
• Stay in Vehicle - Handler will place the dog in a vehicle, open all doors, tell the dog to stay, and leave the direct vicinity of the vehicle. The dog must stay in the vehicle for 5 minutes.
• Socialization, Car Approach - Handler will return to and close all the doors, but leave the windows down. The handler will walk 20 feet away from the vehicle while the dog continues to stay in the vehicle. A stranger will pass by the vehicle, drop an item beside the vehicle, and then pick it up and continue walking past the vehicle. The dog will remain calm and quiet. Two other strangers will approach the vehicle, stop beside it and begin talking, talk for a minute, and then continue walking on. The dog must remain still and quiet. A person will walk a dog past the car (within 10 feet of) and the dog will remain still and quiet.
• Socialization, People Approach - Handler will stand with dog while a stranger approaches. The dog will sit calmly until the person has greeted the handler. The person will then greet the dog. The dog will remain calm and still during the greeting process, showing confidence.
• Socialization With Dogs - The handler will load his/her dog into a vehicle with other dogs. The dogs must sit and remain calm.
• Obedience in Distractive Environment - The handler will heel the dog though a series of distractions to include some of the following: children playing, other dogs, loud noises, machinery or noisy equipment, bicycles, umbrella opening, person walking on crutches, yelling, etc. The handler will then ask the dog to down-stay, wait, and recall in the same environment.
• Retrieve - The handler will throw something for the dog to fetch and bring back to the handler. The dog must readily give up the item to the handler.
• Directional - The handler must send the dog out to the right and to the left (air scent) or command the dog to turn right or left (tracking/trailing).

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Level I Mission Readiness Evaluation

Agility:

Following are descriptions of each agility exercise performed on or off lead for Level I Mission Readiness Evaluation:

• Incline & Cat-walk - The dog must walk up an incline board (45 degrees), across an elevated plank (cat walk, no more than 12" wide and at least 6 feet long), and down a second incline board (45 degrees) on command.
• A-Frame - The dog must scale up a 6 foot A-frame, crest and go down the other side on command.
• Tunnel - The dog must enter a tunnel on command, go all the way through to the other end, and exit a tunnel (which is at least 6 feet long).
• Jump - The dog must be able to jump upon a platform which is at least 36" high on command.
• Crawl - The dog must crawl under a low plank which is at least 3.5 feet wide, 6 feet long, and open on the sides. The dog must enter the crawl space at one end on command, crawl at least a distance of 6 feet, and exit the opposite end without exiting the sides of the crawl space. The plank needs to be at a height which compels the dog to crawl with its belly close to the ground.
• Unstable Footing - The dog will be tested in crossing three of the following unstable surfaces: slick, moving, noisy, rounded, open grating, or loose debris.
• Boulder Field - The dog must be able to negotiate up, over and down a field of boulders which is at least 10 feet across without hesitation on command.
• Swim - The dog must demonstrate entering water over its head and swimming a distance of 15 feet. This may be done utilizing retrieval of a toy.

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Level I Mission Readiness Evaluation

In-Field Search:

• Punctuality - The K-9 team must arrive to the evaluation site on time with all equipment for self and dog complete and ready to go.
• Prep Section - The handler must demonstrate navigational skills and an understanding of scent theory during the "Prep" section of the field search evaluation.
• Size of Search - The K-9 team must successfully search and find one subject in an area of 360 acres (1 mile x ½ mile or ¾ mile X ¾ mile) for air scent or 1-3 miles for tracking/trailing in moderate terrain with areas of difficulty. The finds must take place within 4 hours from the time the dog is released. Track/trail dog will begin from designated point last seen.
• Subject Requirements - The handler will not know where the subject is placed within the search area. The subject shall not wear any bright colors and must not be visible to the handler within 20 feet. The dog should not have worked with the subject within the last 2 months prior to evaluation.
  

Criteria upon which the handler is evaluated:

• Handler arrives at evaluation site with appropriate equipment and in control of one's dog (Prep Section).
• Handler has competent knowledge of navigation and map: 1) program in and navigate to specific UTM coordinates on a gps, 2) Air Scent - outline your designated search area or Track/Trail - plot base and PLS on a topo map. (Prep Section).
• Handler correctly assesses weather and terrain: Air Scent - determine wind direction, wind speed, temperature and humidity or Track/Trail - determine air and ground temperatures and humidity and record this in your log. (Prep Section).
• Handler properly obtains the search scenario from the evaluator and demonstrates an ability to plan an appropriate method of search (Prep Section).
• Handler demonstrates functional understanding of scent theory: Air Scent -1) illustrates how the scent should travel through the designated search area considering current weather, terrain, and time of day, 2) scent theory is reflected in the search plan, and 3) handles dog accordingly or Track/Trail 1) illustrates where scent should be retained, pooled or dispersed, and 2) handles dog accordingly. (Prep Section).
• Handler must demonstrate sound handling techniques in all aspects of the search: preparation to work, send out, during search, during find, and reward.
• Handler must demonstrate ability to read his/her dog: alerts, working, not working, distracted by other smells, wildlife, etc.
• Handler must not lead the dog.
• Handler must show an awareness and ability to adjust the search plan when encountering unexpected changes in terrain and weather as the search ensues.
• Handler must show clear, concise interface with his/her navigational team regarding the search area & executing the search plan.
• Handler must facilitate appropriate communication with base camp.
• Handler must demonstrate an understanding for when it is appropriate for the dog to be rested and watered.
• Handler must exhibit adequate physical fitness and stamina to complete the required search.
• Handler must maintain a calm and professional attitude.
• Handler must demonstrate an acceptable reward system for the dog.
• Handler must demonstrate good assessment of alerts, direction of travel, ROC's, etc and clearly communicate them to base.

Criteria upon which the dog is evaluated:

• Dog must exhibit eagerness to work and a consistent work ethic.
• Dog must exhibit a quick, positive response to handler's commands.
• Dog must show an ease in ability to handle the terrain.
• Dog must exhibit stamina.
• Dog must show an ability to problem-solve when scents, barriers, or other problems arise.
• Dog must be willing to quickly resume work after a break or interruption.
• Dog must exhibit a good relation with the handler throughout the search.
• Dog must exhibit exuberance and satisfaction with his reward system.
  

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Level I Mission Readiness Evaluation

Air Scent:

Search grid is 360 acres (1 mile X ½ mile or ¾ mile X ¾ mile) and the subject is in place at least 30 minutes prior to beginning of search evaluation.

• Dog ranges out well in front of handler (in line with weather and terrain)
• Dog ranges in the appropriate direction when directional signals are given by the handler.
• Dog exhibits clear recall.
• Dog must demonstrate a clear find/re-find, taking the handler all the way in to the subject.
  

Tracking/Trailing Details:

Track will be no less than 1 mile and no more than 3 miles. Track will be aged no less than 12 hours and no more than 24 hours. Track will contain 2 road crossings, a dead end, cross-contamination, and scent discrimination problems.

• Dog must demonstrate a clear alert upon track acquisition
• Handler demonstrates good line-handling skills: 1) line-checking, 2) circling, 3) clear line communication, and 4) uses only necessary verbal communications.
• Dog must show clear decision-making when doing a negative check or re-acquiring the track.
• Handler does not use the lead to correct the dog.
  

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Level I Mission Readiness Evaluation

MRE LEVEL I Evaluation Sheets

Obedience Evaluation - Level I MRE
Obedience	Evaluation Standards (on lead)	Fail	Pass
Sit	The dog must sit on command with the handler in close proximity to the dog.
Sit-Stay	The dog must stay in sit while the handler drops the lead and walks 20 feet away from the dog. The dog must stay in the sit for 3 minutes.
Down	The dog must lay down on command with the handler in close proximity to the dog.
Long Down-Stay	The dog is given and performs the down command. The handler walks 30 feet from the dog, remaining in view, and the dog must remain in the down for 20 minutes. The dog may shift, stand and lay back down of its own accord, but is not to leave the direct area in which the down was begun. The handler may verbally repeat the command no more than two times during the 20-minute time period.
Recall from Down	The handler calls the dog when the long down-stay is completed. The dog must come quickly and directly to the handler.
Absent Down-Stay	The dog is given and performs the down command. The handler walks away at least 30 feet and disappears from site. The dog must remain in the down without the handler visible for 10 minutes. The dog may shift, stand and lay back down of its own accord, but is not to leave the direct area in which the down was begun. The handler may not appear and repeat the command.
Drop on Recall	The dog is recalled at the end of the absent down-stay. Upon the dog's return path back to the handler, the dog is given a command to drop to a down. The dog must immediately stop and drop, without more than a couple of steps.
Heel	The heel must be performed without the dog pulling or straining on the lead. During the heel sequence, the dog must perform the heel at slow, medium, and fast paces. The handler may give a command for each of the paces.
Heel w/ 90 & 180 Degree Turns	During the heel sequence, the dog must readily turn in all directions without pulling, straining, or interfering with the walking gait of the handler.
Wait	The handler must demonstrate the dog's ability to control prey drive through enticing the dog with food or a toy, but making the dog wait until it is told it may "get it". The wait must be at least 1 minute long.
Stay in Vehicle	Handler will place the dog in a vehicle, open all doors, tell the dog to stay, and leave the direct vicinity of the vehicle. The dog must stay in the vehicle for 5 minutes.
Socialization, Car Approach	Handler will return to and close all the doors, but leave the windows down. The handler will walk 20 feet away from the vehicle while the dog continues to stay in the vehicle. A stranger will pass by the vehicle, drop an item beside the vehicle, and then pick it up and continue walking past the vehicle. The dog will remain calm and quiet. Two other strangers will approach the vehicle, stop beside it and begin talking, talk for a minute, and then continue walking on. The dog must remain still and quiet. A person will walk a dog past the car (within 10 feet of) and the dog will remain still and quiet.
Socialization, People Approach	Handler will stand with dog while a stranger approaches. The dog will sit calmly until the person has greeted the handler. The person will then greet the dog. The dog will remain calm and still during the greeting process, showing confidence.
Socialization with Dogs	The handler will load his/her dog into a vehicle with other dogs. The dogs must sit and remain calm.
Obedience in Distractive Environment	The handler will heel the dog though a series of distractions to include some of the following: children playing, other dogs, loud noises, machinery or noisy equipment, bicycles, umbrella opening, person walking on crutches, yelling, etc. The handler will then ask the dog to down-stay, wait, and recall in the same environment.
Retrieve	The handler will throw something for the dog to fetch and bring back to the handler. The dog must readily give up the item to the handler.
Directional	The handler must send the dog out to the right and to the left (air scent) or command the dog to turn right or left (tracking/trailing).
MRE I - Total Failed & Passed, Obedience

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Agility Evaluation - Level I MRE
Agility	Evaluation Standards (off lead)	Fail	Pass
Incline & Cat-walk	The dog must walk up an incline board (45 degrees), across an elevated plank (cat walk, no more than 12" wide and at least 6 feet long), and down a second incline board (45 degrees) on command.
A-Frame	The dog must scale up a 6 foot A-frame, crest and go down the other side on command.
Tunnel	The dog must enter a tunnel on command, go all the way through to the other end, and exit a tunnel (which is at least 6 feet long).
Jump	The dog must be able to jump upon a platform which is at least 36" high on command.
Crawl	The dog must crawl under a low plank which is at least 3.5 feet wide, 6 feet long, and open on the sides. The dog must enter the crawl space at one end on command, crawl at least a distance of 6 feet, and exit the opposite end without exiting the sides of the crawl space. The plank needs to be at a height which compels the dog to crawl with its belly close to the ground.
Unstable Footing	The dog will be tested in crossing three of the following unstable surfaces: slick, moving, noisy, rounded, open grating, or loose debris.
Boulder Field	The dog must be able to negotiate up, over and down a field of boulders which is at least 10 feet across without hesitation on command.
Swim	The dog must demonstrate entering water over its head and swimming a distance of 15 feet. This may be done utilizing retrieval of a toy.
MRE I - Total Failed & Passed, Agility
Team must pass 22 out of 25 of the trials in order to move on to Field Evaluation. If more than 3 trials are failed, the team must re-take this portion.	MRE I - Total Failed & Passed: Obedience + Agility
Comments:
Signature of Evaluator:

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Field Evaluation - Level I MRE
Handler - Prep	Evaluation Standards	Score
Handler arrives at evaluation site on time, with appropriate equipment, organized & in control of one's dog.	1-lack of equipment & dog not in control / 2-lack of equipment or dog not in control / 3-handler is late / 4-is on time, has equipment & dog is in control, but moving slow or disorganized / 5-is on time, has appropriate equipment, organized, & in control of one's dog.
Handler has competent knowledge of navigation & map: 1) programs in & navigates to specific UTM coordinates utilizing the gps, 2) ) Air Scent - outlines the designated search area or Track/Trail - plots base and PLS on a topo map.	1- not competent in navigation & map / 2-not competent in one: navigation or map / 3-moderately competent with navigation & map / 4- competent in navigation & map / 5- extremely competent in navigation & map
Handler correctly assesses and accurately logs weather and terrain: 1) determines wind direction, 2) takes readings of temperature, & humidity and 3) Air Scent - wind speed or Track/Trail - ground temperature.	1-does not correctly assess weather & terrain / 2-does not correctly assess one: weather or terrain / 3-moderately assesses weather & terrain / 4-assesses weather & terrain well / 5-excellent at assessing weather & terrain
Handler properly obtains the search scenario from the evaluator, determines scent source (scent-specific only), & demonstrates an ability to plan an appropriate method for: air scent - approaching the search sector or track/trail - acquiring the track.	1-does not properly obtain search scenario & does not plan appropriate method of search / 2-does not properly obtain search scenario or does not plan appropriate method of search / 3-moderately obtains search scenario & moderately plans appropriate method of search / 4-properly obtains the search scenario from the evaluator & plans an appropriate method of search / 5-excellent in obtaining the search scenario from the evaluator & plans an excellent method of search
Handler demonstrates clear understanding of scent theory: Air Scent-1) illustrates how the scent should travel through the designated search area considering current weather, terrain, and time of day, 2) scent theory is reflected in the search plan, and 3) handles dog accordingly or Track/Trail- 1) illustrates where scent should be retained, pooled or dispersed, and 2) handles dog accordingly.	1-does not understand scent theory / 2-seems to understand, but made wrong choices regarding scent theory / 3-moderately understands and utilizes scent theory / 4-good understanding and utilization of scent theory / 5-excellent understanding and utilization of scent theory & POD
MRE II - Total, Handler, Prep Score
Handler - In Field	Evaluation Standards	Score
Handler must demonstrate sound handling techniques in all aspects of the search: preparation to work, send out, during search, during find, and reward.	1-does not have sound handling techniques / 2-handling techniques fall short in one or more areas: preparation to work, send out, during search, during find, and reward / 3-moderate handling techniques demonstrated / 4-good, sound handling techniques demonstrated / 5-excellent, very sound handling techniques demonstrated
Handler must demonstrate ability to read his/her dog: alerts, working, not working, distracted by other smells, wildlife, etc.	1-is not able to read dog / 2-reads dog poorly / 3-reads dog moderately well / 4-good at reading dog / 5-excellent at reading dog
Handler must not lead the dog.	1-is leading / 2-sometimes leads / 3-occasionally leads / 4-led once or twice / 5-did not lead
Handler must show an awareness and ability to adjust the search plan when encountering unexpected changes in terrain and weather as the search ensues.	1-no adaptability / 2-some adaptability / 3-moderate adaptability / 4-good adaptability / 5- excellent adaptability
Handler must show clear, concise interface with his/her navigational team regarding the search area & executing the search plan	1-improper interface / 2-poor interface / 3-moderate interface / 4-good interface / 5-excellent interface
Handler must facilitate appropriate communication with base camp	1-no communication / 2-poor communication / 3-moderate communication / 4-good communication / 5-excellent communication
Handler must demonstrate an understanding for when it is appropriate for the dog to be rested and watered.	1-no awareness of the dog's needs / 2-little awareness of the dog's needs / 3- moderate awareness of the dog's needs / 4-good awareness of the dog's needs / 5-excellent awareness of the dog's needs
Handler must exhibit adequate physical fitness and stamina to complete the required search.	1-unable to physically complete search / 2-porr fitness & stamina / 3-acceptable, but moderate fitness & stamina / 4-good fitness & stamina / 5-excellent fitness & stamina
Handler must maintain a calm and professional attitude.	1-became emotionally influenced / 2-poor attitude / 3-not really calm or professional / 4-calm & professional / 5-very calm & professional
Handler must demonstrate an acceptable reward system for the dog.	1-reward does not work at all for dog / 2-reward is fairly poor / 3-reward is ok / 4-reward is good / 5-reward is excellent
Handler must demonstrate good assessment of alerts, direction of travel, ROC's, etc and clearly communicate them to base.	1-did not assess well or communicate / 2-poor assessment or communication/ 3-moderate assessment or communication / 4-good assessment & communication / 5-excellent assessment & communication
MRE II - Total, Handler, Field Score
Dog - In Field	Evaluation Standards	Score
Dog must exhibit eagerness to work & a consistent work ethic.	1-no work ethic or eagerness / 2-poor work ethic / 3-moderate work ethic, somewhat lazy / 4-good work ethic, consistent / 5-excellent work ethic, eager & consistent
Dog must exhibit a quick, positive response to handler's commands.	1-no response to commands / 2-poor or very slow response to commands / 3-moderate response to commands / 4-good response to commands / 5-excellent, quick response to commands
Dog must show an ease in ability to handle the terrain.	1-cannot negotiate terrain / 2-difficulty with terrain / 3-moderate, maybe sluggish ability to negotiate terrain / 4-good at negotiating terrain / 5-excellent & confident negotiating terrain
Dog must exhibit stamina.	1-no stamina / 2-poor stamina / 3-moderate stamina / 4- good stamina / 5-excellent stamina
Dog must show ability to problem-solve when a scent barrier or other problems arise.	1-no ability to problem-solve / 2-poor ability to problem-solve / 3-moderate ability to problem-solve / 4-good ability to problem-solve / 5-excellent ability to problem-solve
Dog must be willing to resume work after a break or interruption.	11-does not resume / 2-difficulty in resuming / 3-resumes reluctantly / 4-resumes well / 5-eager to resume work
Dog must exhibit a good relation with the hander all throughout the search.	1-no relation with handler / 2-poor relation with handler / 3-moderate relation with handler / 4-good relation with handler / 5-excellent relation with hander
Dog must exhibit exuberance & satisfaction with his reward system.	1-no interest in reward, distracted / 2-poor interest in reward, shows frustration / 3-moderate response to reward / 4-good response to reward / 5-excellent show of exuberance, displaying complete satisfaction at end
MRE II - Total, Dog Score

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Field Evaluation, Specific Search Modalities- Level I MRE
Air Scent	Evaluation Standards	Score
Search grid is 360 acres (1 mile X ½ mile or ¾ mile X ¾ mile) and the one subject is in place at least 30 minutes prior to beginning of search. This standard must be met for the Air Scent Evaluation test to be valid.
Dog ranges out well in front of the handler (in line w/ POD).	1-does not range / 2-ranges poorly / 3-ranges moderately / 4-ranges well / 5-excellent range
Dog ranges in the appropriate direction when directional signals are given by the handler.	1-does not range in the given direction / 2-ranges poorly in the given direction / 3-ranges moderately in the given direction / 4-ranges well in the given direction / 5-excellent at ranging in the given direction
Dog exhibits clear recall.	1-no recall / 2-poor recall / 3-moderate recall / 4-good recall / 5-excellent recall
Dog must execute a solid find/re-find, clearly taking the handler all the way in to the subject.	1-no find/re-find / 2-poor find/re-find / 3-ok find/re-find / 4-good find/re-find / 5- excellent find/re-find
MRE I - Total, Air Scent Score
Tracking/Trailing	Evaluation Standards	Checked
Track will be no less than 1 miles and no more than 3 miles.	Yes  No
Track will be aged no less than 12 hours and no more than 24 hours.	Yes  No
Track will contain 2 road crossings, a dead end, cross contamination, & scent discrimination.	Yes  No
The above three standards must be met in order for the Tracking/Trailing Evaluation test to be valid.		Score
Dog must demonstrate a clear alert upon track acquisition.	1-no acquisition or alert / 2-poor acquisition or poor alert / 3-moderate acquisition & alert / 4-good acquisition & alert / 5-excellent acquisition & alert
Handler demonstrates good line-handling skills: 1) line-checking, 2) circling, 3) clear line communication, and 4) uses only necessary verbal communications.	1-is clumsy and lacks finesse with the lead / 2-is inconsistent in skill, good & bad / 3-is steady, but needs finesse or polish / 4-is good in all line-handling skills / 5-is excellent in all line-handing skills
Dog must show clear decision-making when doing a negative check or re-acquiring the track.	1-gets entirely lost / 2-somewhat confused / 3-fairly decisive / 4-adequately decisive / 5-excellent & clear decisiveness
Handler does not use the lead to correct the dog.	1-continually corrects dog / 2-often corrects dog / 3-sometimes corrects dog / 4-corrected dog 1-2 times / 5-did not correct dog with lead.
MRE I - Total Tracking/Trailing Score

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Field Evaluation Score - Final Scores - Level I MRE
MRE I - Handler, Prep Score
MRE I - Handler, In-Field Score
MRE I - Dog In-Field Score
Only one of the two scores is applicable and will be filled in, depending on the type of Evaluation	MRE II - Air Scent Score
	MRE II - Tracking/Trailing
In order to pass Level I MRE: In order to pass Level I MRE: A team must score at least 112 out of 140 possible points. Scores in any one area of 1 or 2 may also compel the TSAR Board of Directors to deem the team not mission ready, even though the overall grade of 112 is achieved.
	Fail	MRC I - Total Team Score
	Pass
Comments:
Signature of Evaluator:

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TSAR K-9 Level II Mission Readiness Evaluation

Level II Mission Readiness Evaluation Navigation:

Basic Outline - Obedience, Agility & Field Testing - Criteria for Evaluation for Handler & Dog

Specifics - Obedience Details - Agility Details - Air Scent Details - Tracking/Trailing Details

Evaluation - MRC LEVEL II Evaluation Sheets - Obedience Evaluation - Agility Evaluation - Field Evaluation - Specialty Searches - Final Field Scores

The Level II Mission Readiness Evaluation Testing must be successfully completed within 8 months of having successfully completed the Level I Mission Readiness Evaluation or a Secondary Mission Readiness Evaluation. Upon successfully completing the Level II Mission Readiness Evaluation, the Handler/K-9 team is ready for more advanced field deployment at any TSAR mission requiring the service of a K-9 search team and may also be utilized by other government agencies.

Evaluation Basic Outline

In order to schedule and take the field Evaluation evaluation section, the handler must first meet several other Evaluation requirements:

• The handler must have at least one previous TSAR K-9 Mission Readiness Evaluation or a K-9 Mission Readiness Evaluation from another search organization requiring equal or greater criteria.
• The handler must have a current WAFA Certificate or other medical certificate of equal or greater merit.
• 

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Level II Mission Readiness Evaluation

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Level II Mission Readiness Evaluation

• General Search: The K-9 team must successfully search and find two subjects in an area of 640 acres (1 mile x 1 mile) for air scent or 3-6 miles for tracking/trailing in moderate to difficult terrain. The finds must take place within 6 hours from the time the dog is released. The dog may air scent, track, or trail.
• Heavy Brush: The K-9 team must successfully search and find one subject in an area of 80 acres in heavy, dense brush during daylight hours. The find must take place within 2 hours from the time the dog is released. The dog must utilize the same search modality as for the general search.
• Night Search: The K-9 team must successfully search and find one subject in an area of 80 acres in moderate terrain at night. The find must take place within 1 1/2 hours from the time the dog is released. The dog must utilize the same search modality as for the general search.
• Moving Subject Search: The K-9 team must successfully search and find one subject in an area of 80 acres in moderate terrain with the subject constantly moving during the search during daylight hours. The find must take place within 2 hours from the time the dog is released. The dog must utilize the same search modality as for the general search.
• Elevated Subject Search: The K-9 team must successfully search and find one subject in an area of 40 acres in moderate terrain where the subject is elevated in a tree or high on an isolated rock during daylight hours. The find must take place within 1 hour from the time the dog is released. The dog must utilize the same search modality as for the general search.
• Evidence Search (Tracking/Trailing Dogs Only): The K-9 team must successfully search and find 3 out of 5 articles in an area of 80 acres in moderate terrain during daylight hours. The finds must take place within 2 hours from the time the dog is released.

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Level II Mission Readiness Evaluation

Following are the criteria upon which the handler is evaluated:

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Level II Mission Readiness Evaluation

Following are the criteria upon which the dog is evaluated:

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Level II Mission Readiness Evaluation

The Level II Mission Readiness Evaluation must be renewed every 18 months unless the Handler/K-9 team attends 70% of all scheduled TSAR K-9 trainings and meetings, in which case the Level II Mission Readiness Evaluation is good for 3 years. If a Handler/K-9 team is completely absent from scheduled team trainings and meetings for 3 months without otherwise working the K-9, then the Evaluation may be reviewed and revoked.

Evaluation Specifics

Obedience Details:

Following are the descriptions of each obedience exercise performed off lead for Level II Mission Readiness Evaluation:

• Sit - The dog must sit on command with the handler in close proximity to the dog.
• Sit-Stay - The dog must stay in sit while the handler walks 50 feet away from the dog and then proceeds to walk around the area, occasionally stopping to talk to several people. The dog must stay in the sit for 7 minutes.
• Down - The dog must lay down on command with the handler in close proximity to the dog.
• Absent Down-Stay - The dog is given and performs the down command. The handler walks away at least 30 feet and disappears from site. The dog must remain in the down without the handler visible for 50 minutes. The dog may shift, stand and lay back down of its own accord, but is not to leave the direct area in which the down was begun. The handler may not appear and repeat the command.
• Recall from Down - When the absent down stay is completed, the handler re-appears, waits 2 minutes, and then calls the dog. The dog must come quickly and directly to the handler.
• Heel - The heel must be performed off lead demonstrating slow, medium, and fast paces. The handler may give a command for each of the paces. The dog must remain always at the handler's side and in good focus.
• Heel w/ 90 & 180 degree turns - During the heel sequence, the dog must readily turn in all directions without interfering with the walking gait of the handler.
• Heel with Stop/Automatic Sit - During the heel sequence, the handler will come to a complete stop. The dog must also stop and sit to the handler's left side without a command.
• Recall - While playing with another person, the handler will recall the dog from play and back to him/her.
• Stop on Recall - The dog is put into a down-stay. The handler will walk away 50 feet and call the dog. Upon the dog's return path back to the handler, the dog is given a command to stop. The dog will remain standing still in its place for 1 minute until the handler gives the next command.
• Drop on Recall - The dog is put into a down-stay. The handler will walk away 50 feet, and call the dog. Upon the dog's return path back to the handler, the dog is given a command to drop to a down. The dog must immediately stop and drop, without more than a couple of steps.
• Wait - The handler must demonstrate the dog's ability to control prey drive through enticing the dog with food or a toy, but making the dog wait until it is told it may "get it". The wait must be at least 1 minute long with the item of desire in plain view the entire time, but not held by the handler.
• Stay in Vehicle - Handler will place the dog in a vehicle, open all doors, command the dog to stay, and leave the direct vicinity of the vehicle, going out of the dog's view. The dog must stay in the vehicle for 15 minutes while several distractions occur next to the car.
• Socialization, Car Approach - Handler will return to and close all the doors, but leave the windows down. The handler will walk 20 feet away from the vehicle while the dog continues to stay in the vehicle. A stranger will pass by the vehicle, make a loud noise, and continue walking past the vehicle. The dog will remain calm and quiet. Two other strangers will approach the vehicle, stop beside it and begin talking loudly. While talking, they will create two other distractions remaining near the car for 1 ½ minutes, and then continue walking on. The dog must remain still and quiet. Two people will each walk a dog past and within 10 feet of the car at the same time. The dog must remain still and quiet.
• Socialization, People Approach - Handler will stand with dog while several strangers loudly approach. The dog will sit calmly until the people have greeted the handler. The people will then individually greet the dog. The dog will remain calm and still during the greeting process, showing confidence.
• Socialization With Dogs - The handler will load his/her dog into a vehicle with other dogs. The dogs must sit and remain calm, remaining in the vehicle for 10 minutes.
• Obedience in Distractive Environment - The handler will heel the dog off lead though a series of distractions to include some of the following: children playing, other dogs, loud noises, machinery or noisy equipment, bicycles, umbrella opening, person walking on crutches, yelling, etc. The handler will then ask the dog to down-stay, wait, and recall in the same environment.
• Retrieve - The handler will throw (at the same time) two different items for the dog to fetch and bring back to the handler. The handler will command the dog to get and bring back a certain one of the two items. The dog must discern which of the two items to retrieve, pick it up and bring it back to the handler. The dog must readily give up the first item to the handler and be immediately sent out again to retrieve the second remaining item. He must successfully pick up and bring this item directly back to the handler.
• Directional - The handler must send the dog out to the right, to the left, straight to the front, to back up, and go around (go around an object, e.g.: tree, rock) (air scent) or command the dog to turn right, left, go forward, back up, and go around (go around an object, e.g.: tree,) (tracking/trailing).

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Level II Mission Readiness Evaluation

Agility Details:

• Incline & Cat-walk - The dog must walk up an incline board (45 degrees), across an elevated plank (cat walk, no more than 12" wide and at least 12 feet long), and down a second incline board (45 degrees) on command.
• High Jump - The dog will execute a jump onto and off a platform at least 36 inches in height on command.
• Broad Jump - The dog will jump over a span of 5 feet upon command.
• Unstable Jump - The dog will jump onto a barrel which has been turned on its side on command, will balance there for 30 seconds, and then will jump off on command.
• Tunnel - The dog must enter a tunnel on command, go all the way through to the other end, and exit a tunnel which is at least 12 feet long with a blind exit.
• Crawl - The dog must crawl under a low plank which is at least 3.5 feet wide, 6 feet long, and open on the sides. The dog must enter the crawl space at one end on command, crawl at least a distance of 6 feet, and exit the opposite end without exiting the sides of the crawl space. The plank needs to be at a height which compels the dog to crawl with its belly close to the ground.
• Unstable Footing - The dog will be tested in crossing three of the following unstable surfaces: slick, moving, noisy, rounded, open grating, or loose debris.
• Teeter Totter - The dog will walk up a 12-foot teeter totter, tip it over and walk down the other side on command. The dog will not rush and will demonstrate control and confidence.
• Boulder Field - The dog must be able to negotiate up, over and down a field of boulders which is at least 20 feet across without hesitation on command.
• Swim & Retrieve - The dog must demonstrate entering water over its head and swimming a distance of 25 feet. This may be done utilizing retrieval of a toy.
• Lift in Harness - The dog must willingly be buckled into a harness and be raised off the ground for a distance of 20 feet. The dog must remain calm and relaxed during the sequence.
• Load & Unload - The dog must easily load and unload on command into a running pick-up truck & helicopter.
• Stability on Moving Machinery - The dog must demonstrate stability and calmness while being loaded and lifted with a hydraulic lift-gate (truck) or in the bucket of a bulldozer or other earth-moving equipment. The dog must remain calm, without fear, and must not jump out or off the machinery when in motion or until commanded to do so.
• Ladder - The dog must calmly, surely, and with precision walk up and down a six foot ladder on command without jumping off.
• Elevated Open Plank Walk - The dog must walk across a six foot span of separated planks (similar to a cattle guard) which is elevated 3 feet in the air on command. The dog must precisely place its front and back feet on the planks without slipping into the open sections.
• Slide - The dog must go down an 8-foot slide on command.
• Log Climb - The dog must climb a 6-foot pile of logs, descend the opposite side for 3 feet, and then jump off to the ground upon command.

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Level II Mission Readiness Evaluation

Air Scent Details:

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Level II Mission Readiness Evaluation

Tracking/Trailing Details:

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Level II Mission Readiness Evaluation

MRE LEVEL II Evaluation Sheets

Obedience Evaluation - Level II MRE
Obedience	Evaluation Standards (off lead)	Fail	Pass
Sit	The dog must sit on command with the handler in close proximity to the dog.
Sit-Stay	The dog must stay in sit while the handler walks 50 feet away from the dog and then proceeds to walk around the area, occasionally stopping to talk to several people. The dog must stay in the sit for 7 minutes.
Down	The dog must lay down on command with the handler in close proximity to the dog.
Absent Down-Stay	The dog is given and performs the down command. The handler walks away at least 30 feet and disappears from site. The dog must remain in the down without the handler visible for 50 minutes. The dog may shift, stand and lay back down of its own accord, but is not to leave the direct area in which the down was begun. The handler may not appear and repeat the command.
Recall from Down	When the absent down stay is completed, the handler re-appears, waits 2 minutes, and then calls the dog. The dog must come quickly and directly to the handler.
Heel	The heel must be performed off lead demonstrating slow, medium, and fast paces. The handler may give a command for each of the paces. The dog must remain always at the handler's side and in good focus.
Heel w/ 90 & 180 degree turns	During the heel sequence, the dog must readily turn in all directions without interfering with the walking gait of the handler.
Heel with Stop/Automatic Sit	During the heel sequence, the handler will come to a complete stop. The dog must also stop and sit to the handler's left side without a command.
Recall	While playing with another person, the handler will recall the dog from play and back to him/her.
Stop on Recall	The dog is put into a down-stay. The handler will walk away 50 feet and call the dog. Upon the dog's return path back to the handler, the dog is given a command to stop. The dog will remain standing still in its place for 1 minute until the handler gives the next command.
Drop on Recall	The dog is put into a down-stay. The handler will walk away 50 feet, and call the dog. Upon the dog's return path back to the handler, the dog is given a command to drop to a down. The dog must immediately stop and drop, without more than a couple of steps.
Wait	The handler must demonstrate the dog's ability to control prey drive through enticing the dog with food or a toy, but making the dog wait until it is told it may "get it". The wait must be at least 1 minute long with the item of desire in plain view the entire time, but not held by the handler.
Stay in Vehicle	Handler will place the dog in a vehicle, open all doors, command the dog to stay, and leave the direct vicinity of the vehicle, going out of the dog's view. The dog must stay in the vehicle for 15 minutes while several distractions occur next to the car.
Socialization, Car Approach	Handler will return to and close all the doors, but leave the windows down. The handler will walk 20 feet away from the vehicle while the dog continues to stay in the vehicle. A stranger will pass by the vehicle, make a loud noise, and continue walking past the vehicle. The dog will remain calm and quiet. Two other strangers will approach the vehicle, stop beside it and begin talking loudly. While talking, they will create two other distractions remaining near the car for 1 ½ minutes, and then continue walking on. The dog must remain still and quiet. Two people will each walk a dog past and within 10 feet of the car at the same time. The dog must remain still and quiet.
Socialization, People Approach	Handler will stand with dog while several strangers loudly approach. The dog will sit calmly until the people have greeted the handler. The people will then individually greet the dog. The dog will remain calm and still during the greeting process, showing confidence.
Socialization with Dogs	The handler will load his/her dog into a vehicle with other dogs. The dogs must sit and remain calm, remaining in the vehicle for 10 minutes.
Obedience in Distractive Environment	The handler will heel the dog off lead though a series of distractions to include some of the following: children playing, other dogs, loud noises, machinery or noisy equipment, bicycles, umbrella opening, person walking on crutches, yelling, etc. The handler will then ask the dog to down-stay, wait, and recall in the same environment.
Retreive	The handler will throw (at the same time) two different items for the dog to fetch and bring back to the handler. The handler will command the dog to get and bring back a certain one of the two items. The dog must discern which of the two items to retrieve, pick it up and bring it back to the handler. The dog must readily give up the first item to the handler and be immediately sent out again to retrieve the second remaining item. He must successfully pick up and bring this item directly back to the handler.
Directional	The handler must send the dog out to the right, to the left, straight to the front, to back up, and go around (go around an object, e.g.: tree, rock) (air scent) or command the dog to turn right, left, go forward, back up, and go around (go around an object, e.g.: tree,) (tracking/trailing).
MRE II - Total Failed & Passed, Obedience

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Level II Mission Readiness Evaluation

Agility Evaluation - Level II MRE
Agility	Evaluation Standards (off lead)	Fail	Pass
Incline & Cat-walk	The dog must walk up an incline board (45 degrees), across an elevated plank (cat walk, no more than 12" wide and at least 12 feet long), and down a second incline board (45 degrees) on command.
High Jump	The dog will execute a jump onto and off a platform at least 36 inches in height on command.
Broad Jump	The dog will jump over a span of 5 feet upon command.
Unstable Jump	The dog will jump onto a barrel which has been turned on its side on command, will balance there for 30 seconds, and then will jump off on command.
Tunnel	The dog must enter a tunnel on command, go all the way through to the other end, and exit a tunnel which is at least 12 feet long with a blind exit.
Crawl	The dog must crawl under a low plank which is at least 3.5 feet wide, 6 feet long, and open on the sides. The dog must enter the crawl space at one end on command, crawl at least a distance of 6 feet, and exit the opposite end without exiting the sides of the crawl space. The plank needs to be at a height which compels the dog to crawl with its belly close to the ground.
Unstable Footing	The dog will be tested in crossing three of the following unstable surfaces: slick, moving, noisy, rounded, open grating, or loose debris.
Heel with Stop/Automatic Sit	During the heel sequence, the handler will come to a complete stop. The dog must also stop and sit to the handler's left side without a command.
Teeter Totter	The dog will walk up a 12-foot teeter totter, tip it over and walk down the other side on command. The dog will not rush and will demonstrate control and confidence.
Boulder Field	The dog must be able to negotiate up, over and down a field of boulders which is at least 20 feet across without hesitation on command.
Swim & Retrieve	The dog must demonstrate entering water over its head and swimming a distance of 25 feet. This may be done utilizing retrieval of a toy.
Lift in Harness	The dog must willingly be buckled into a harness and be raised off the ground for a distance of 20 feet. The dog must remain calm and relaxed during the sequence.
Load & Unload	The dog must easily load and unload on command into a running pick-up truck & helicopter.
Stability on Moving Machinery	The dog must demonstrate stability and calmness while being loaded and lifted with a hydraulic lift-gate (truck) or in the bucket of a bulldozer or other earth-moving equipment. The dog must remain calm, without fear, and must not jump out or off the machinery when in motion or until commanded to do so.
Ladder	The dog must calmly, surely, and with precision walk up and down a six foot ladder on command without jumping off.
Elevated Open Plank Walk	The dog must walk across a six foot span of separated planks (similar to a cattle guard) which is elevated 3 feet in the air on command. The dog must precisely place its front and back feet on the planks without slipping into the open sections.
Slide	The dog must go down an 8-foot slide on command.
Log Climb	The dog must climb a 6-foot pile of logs, descend the opposite side for 3 feet, and then jump off to the ground upon command.
MRE II - Total Failed & Passed, Agility
Team must pass 33 out of 36 of the trials in order to move on to field Evaluation. If more than 3 trials are failed, the team must re-take this portion.	MRE II - Total Failed & Passed: Obedience + Agility
Comments:
Signature of Evaluator:

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Level II Mission Readiness Evaluation

Field Evaluation - Level II MRE
Handler - Prep	Evaluation Standards	Score
MRE II - Total, Handler, Prep Score
Handler - In Field	Evaluation Standards	Score
MRE II - Total, Handler, Field Score
Dog - In Field	Evaluation Standards	Score
MRE II - Total, Dog Score

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Level II Mission Readiness Evaluation

Field Evaluation, Specific Search Modalities- Level II MRE
Air Scent	Evaluation Standards
Search grid is is 640 acres (1 mile X 1 mile) and the 3 subjects are placed at least 45 minutes prior to begin of search. This standard must be met for the air Evaluation test to be valid.		Score
Total, Air Scent Scores, Subject 1, 2 & 3
MRE II - Total, Air Scent Score
Tracking/Trailing	Evaluation Standards	Checked
Track will be no less than 3 miles and no more than 6 miles.	Yes  No
Track will be aged no less than 24 hours and no more than 48 hours.	Yes  No
Track will contain 3 road crossings (1 paved surface), a dead end, cross contamination, & scent discrimination.	Yes  No
The above three standards must be met in order for the tracking/trailing Evaluation test to be valid.		Score
MRE II - Total Tracking/Trailing Score

Evaluation Page

Level II Mission Readiness Evaluation

Field Evaluation, Specialty Searches - Level II MRE A score of 1 (no result), 2 (poor), or 3 (average) is failing. A score of 4 (good) or 5 (excellent) is passing. A team must pass all pertinent Specialtyl Searches to receive this level of Evaluation. All areas of competency observed in the General Search are also observed in each of the Specialty Searches
Heavy Brush Search - Level II MRE
Heavy Brush Search: The K-9 team must successfully search and find one subject in an area of 40 acres in heavy, dense brush during daylight hours. The find must take place within 2 hours from the time the dog is released. The dog must utilize the same search modality as for the general search
MRE II - Heavy Brush Search			Fail  Pass Score______
Night Search - Level II MRC
The K-9 team must successfully search and find one subject in an area of 80 acres in moderate terrain at night. The find must take place within 1 1/2 hours from the time the dog is released. The dog must utilize the same search modality as for the general search.
MRE II - Night Search			Fail  Pass Score_____
Moving Search - Level II MRC
Moving Subject Search: The K-9 team must successfully search and find one subject in an area of 80 acres in moderate terrain with the subject constantly moving during the search during daylight hours. The find must take place within 2 hours from the time the dog is released. The dog must utilize the same search modality as for the general search.
MRE II - Moving Subject Search			Fail  Pass Score______
Elevated Subject Search - Level II MRC
Elevated Subject Search - The K-9 team must successfully search and find one subject in an area of 40 acres in moderate terrain where the subject is elevated in a tree or high on an isolated rock during daylight hours. The find must take place within 1 hour from the time the dog is released. The dog must utilize the same search modality as for the general search.
MRE II - Elevated Subject Search			Fail  Pass Score_____
Evidence Search (Tracking/Trailing Only) - Level II MRE
Evidence Search (Tracking/Trailing Dogs Only) - The K-9 team must successfully search and find 3 out of 5 articles in an area of 40 acres in moderate terrain during daylight hours. The finds must take place within 2 hours from the time the dog is released.
MRE II - Evidence Search			Fail  Pass

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Level II Mission Readiness Evaluation

Field Evaluation Score - Final Scores - Level II MRE
MRE II - Handler, Prep Score
MRE II - Handler, In Field Score
MRE II - Dog Score
Only one of the two scores is applicable and will be filled in, depending on the type of Evaluation	MRE II - Air Scent Score
	MRE II - Tracking/Trailing
MRE II - Heavy Brush Search
MRE II - Night Search
MRE II - Moving Search
MRE II - Elevated Subject Search
Tracking/Trailing Dogs Only		MRE II - Evidence Search
	Fail	MRE II - Total Team Score
	Pass
Comments:
Signature of Evaluator:

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Training, Evaluation, & Evaluation Timeline | Pre-Evaluation I | Pre-Evaluation II | Pre-Evaluation III

Level I Mission Readiness Evaluation | MRE Level I Evaluation Sheets

Level II Mission Readiness Evaluation | MRE Level II Evaluation Sheets